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Bad Elements Series #1

Bad Elements: Crystal Dragon

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Crystal Bouchard awakens imprisoned in an underground cell with no recollection of how she got there and with no memory of her prior existence.  Held against her will, her captors threaten to kill her son unless she fights to the death in the underground fighting circuit. Nicknamed "The Dragon," she spends the next several years among werewolves and vampires. During the course of searching for her son, she slowly begins to recollect her prior existence before her imprisonment, pushing her deeper within the fighting circuit, exposing even more horrendous secrets than she had known.
*For Mature Audiences

452 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2010

8 people are currently reading
343 people want to read

About the author

Lynn Mullican

27 books210 followers
LYNN MULLICAN was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. She is married to Patrick, has three adult children, Cassandra, Bridget and Joeseph, three grand-daughters, and two grand-sons.

Starting from the early age of 7 years old, she began to write short stories and soon developed a love for the art.

Lynn wrote several poems that were published before publishing her first book.

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5 stars
29 (40%)
4 stars
28 (39%)
3 stars
11 (15%)
2 stars
1 (1%)
1 star
2 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
Author 14 books202 followers
February 26, 2017
A really good Werewolf vs Vampire book. It took me a few chapters to really start getting into it. I think there's a bit too much detail at the beginning. But we follow Crystal as she fights through the ranks of underground fighters, she gets passed from one bad creature to the next just so they can use her to fight. She finally meets someone that can help her and someone she can trust.
Profile Image for 2OCC Reviews.
3,487 reviews254 followers
February 18, 2017
I'm a huge fan of paranormal romance so I was excited to try this new to me author. With werewolves and vampires I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed the story after I got past the first chapters. They weren't bad, but I felt that they slowed down the flow of the story.

The characters were great. We had vampires and other Paranormal creatures. The story revolved around Crystal trying to figure out her life and I cheered for her the whole time.

One of my favorite aspects of the story was the fighting. It added something to the story and made me like crystal a lot more being able to see her handle her self.

Overall, I really liked the story. I love when a heroine can be just as tough as men and crystal was totally amazing. I loved the mystery and the action that the author threw into the story. The ending leaves it open for a lot more, and I will read the next installment in the future. 3.5/4 stars #2OCCJD
Profile Image for Whitney Cannavina.
Author 8 books128 followers
December 28, 2017
I received an ARC for an honest review

Crystal has no idea who she is or what happened before she was thrust into the world of werewolves and vampires to fight for her life...literally.

I have to say I honestly never read anything like this before. The Author has a large imagination coming up with a story such as this. She leaves so many questions unanswered and plenty of new information that give us more questions. The constant battle for her life, the snippets of her past, and the characters whom were unsure of their true intent or how everyone plays into the story keeps you glued to the pages. My only issues was he constant fighting. I felt there was almost too much however there is definitely a story and much to be desired for he next book that I can’t wait to delve into to.
Profile Image for Sandra Loves Reading.
741 reviews10 followers
January 24, 2018
I felt a bit like Crystal when I started reading this book. I didn't have a clue what was going on! What kept me reading was that it was well written, and then it became intriguing and I had to keep reading to find out what was going to happen.
If you're a fan of vampires and werewolves then this will be a treat! A word of warning though: There is blood, guts and violence on almost every page, so it's not for the faint-hearted!
Profile Image for Selene.
10 reviews9 followers
December 13, 2012
I actually didn't know whether or not to write a review for this book. I came across the description of the book on goodreads.com and sometime later saw it in a giveaway and I actually won it. I was really looking forward to reading it and the author had even signed it for me. But then I read the book. Obviously with a 2 star rating I really didn't like it all that much.
First off, I think the book could use some editing, proofreading, copy-writing, something of that sort. There were a noticeable amount of blatant grammatical mistakes - misplaced commas, quotation marks that open but don't close and poorly worded sentences. I don't consider myself a grammar Nazi, but when I say blatant I mean blatant. For example on page 420 of the printed book there's a sentence - "She clearly kept an on him from the corner of her eye." Now I do get what the author is saying but I think by the time a book is going to be published these sorts of errors should have been fixed. I don't expect every book I read to be a masterpiece of Shakespearean proportions but I don't want to feel like an English teacher correcting papers either. Also the amount of these types of errors, for me anyway, detracted from the story.
I guess that brings me to the story. The main character is called "Crystal" throughout most of the book.(Her real name is Brandy Crystal Bouchard, and for a period she does go by the name "Brandy.") She is an amnesiac who was kidnapped and brought into an illegal death match style fighting circuit. The author does inform the reader that Crystal is a little overweight in the beginning, but you don't find out that she's in her 40's until she's already been fighting for 4 years. By this time I already have a picture in my mind of who the main character is and this tiny tidbit of information, that isn't given until page 71, completely altered it. This actually happens quite frequently in the book as well. There is a point in the story where Crystal is trying to escape the circuit. She kills someone, takes their keys, and the next day (and several pages later), realizes that the guy she killed had a handgun, rifle and hunting knife on him and she probably could have used those things. If you're searching someone for keys how do you not see a rifle? Crystal has a son by the name of Robert Drake Bouchard. He is a 22 year old deputy who has been looking for his mom since she disappeared. But you then find out Crystal also has a daughter, who is now 16 years old. Crystal's daughter, Jennifer, runs into her mom but only recognizes her mother as the woman from the missing persons case her brother's always been asking about. This seems off to me. Jennifer recognizes Crystal despite any changes that may have occurred from fighting for years but doesn't know that her brother who she lives with is still searching for their mom. Also, young Robert Drake has 3 children when his mother comes back into his life, the oldest of which is 4 years old. Now, his wife doesn't recognize his mother (that's been gone for 4 to 5 years) either. So I guess that means that Crystal's 18 year old son had a girlfriend who was pregnant that his mom didn't know about; or at the very least when Robert was 18, he had a pregnant girlfriend that never met his parents.
But I guess it's alright if Jennifer, Crystal's daughter, doesn't remember her dear old mother, because she's really not that strong of a character anyway. When I read the description I was hoping for a bad-ass strong female lead. This really isn't the case with Crystal, or any of the female characters in this book. Crystal may know how to fight, but she is a pawn through the entire story. Every decision is made by a man whether it's one of her captors, a vigilante werewolf that comes sweeping to her rescue, a vampire working for the underground secret service, or her own son. I could go on but I'd really rather not bash the book anymore. There does appear to be a sequel to this book. I won't be reading it.
In compliance with FTC guidelines, I have received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
87 reviews9 followers
January 14, 2017
Book 1 in the Bad Elements Series: Crystal Dragon is about Crystal Bouchard. Crystal wakes up as a prisoner in an underground fight club with no memory of who she is or how she got there. Told that she has a son, whom her captors will kill should she step out of line, Crystal trains to become the ultimate fighting machine. Her new world is full of kill or be killed and all fights are TO THE DEATH. While fighting for her life and that of a son that she has no memory of, Crystal secretly begins to search for answers.

The book is a little slow in the first few chapters and because it's from Crystal's point of view and she has amnesia, I felt just as confused as she was. The concept of the story is awesome! Badass female fighter who leads with her heart, which is ultimately my favorite character type. The book is the first in the series so you definitely should go ahead and get the other one because the ending is a cliffy. ;)

I'll give it a 4 out of 5 stars because the concept and story were great, but the style was a bit all over the place. All in All, I'm going to put Lynn Mullican on my shelf and recommend her to my friends who enjoy dark and gritty supernatural drama. Definitely not a YA and would recommend 18 years and up for violent content and some sex scenes.
Profile Image for Kelly Molloy.
109 reviews
September 26, 2016
A story about vampires, werewolves and a kick arse woman that was abducted and forced to fight till the death in an underground fighting ring.
She ends up making some allies and enemies along her journey in this world that is frightening brutal and violent, she's looking to escape at any opportunity to find what she left behind, a life that she can only remember once she is released from the hold the werewolf has on her mind.
To find her son that they held over her for so long, to relive memories that no one would want to live through.
But be warned this ends on a cliffhanger!

I really love the storyline in this book but I just feel like some information was not given like no one said anything about a daughter but when u meet the son he talks about his sister, it just left me confused.
Can't wait to see what happens in the next book!!
Profile Image for T..
Author 13 books572 followers
May 21, 2015
I received Crystal Dragon as an ARC. The gifting did not determine the review/rating, which reflects my honest opinion. I'll admit right off, I'm not a fan of show, rather than tell writing style, but this author made it work in this gritty, violent story of a woman abducted and forced to fight to the death in an illegal, underground ring. The story was interesting, although there were some repeated aspects I found irritating (I don't want spoilers, so I'll have to be vague). This is not a comfortable book, and confusing at times, but I did love it once I got into the first few chapters.
Profile Image for Colette.
573 reviews7 followers
July 25, 2017
This is a story of paranormal, supernatural with a kick your butt, in your face woman willing to fight vampires and werewolves for sport. When she has to go fight those that have caused her suffering, Crystal goes on a rampage. She fights hard against those creatures keeping her from what is hers and she doesn't stop until she wins. Along with the fighting you're left with one big lesson on just how powerful women can be. No man fought Crystal's battles, she did it all on her own, she was tough with a good heart and loving spirit. Excellent book, looking forward to more of this author's work.
Profile Image for Steph Parks.
102 reviews
May 8, 2015
First, let me say, I loved this story. The plot was great, and I will be reading the next one. I only gave the book 3 stars because the beginning was quite slow and I found the author was too descriptive at times, making me lose interest. The characters were well developed, but I noticed that sometimes too much information was given that wasn't really necessary.
Despite all that, I really liked the story and will be reading the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Jessica .
1,034 reviews21 followers
August 7, 2015
3.5 Stars! copy received in exchange of an honest review!
I am not a huge fan of paranormal but I do read some. The story started off way to slow for me, it took me a while to get into it. If you love vampires and werewolves then this story is probably a good one for you. This book contains violence, romance..

The author did a good job with the character and making the story flow. Check it out for yourself!






Profile Image for John Cassian.
Author 7 books95 followers
September 6, 2013
Crystal Dragon wasn't my usual cup of tea, but it's engrossing from the start and really puts you in the mind of the main character -- aptly named Crystal. I loved the whole Fight Club vibe, and adding in the supernatural elements reminded me of some of my favorite TV shows like Angel and Supernatural.

Overall, if you want a slick, violent supernatural tale, check out CRYSTAL DRAGON!
Profile Image for Stephen Walton.
650 reviews2 followers
May 16, 2015
As I like this Genre of story I found the book both entertaining and enjoyable . Slick and well told its a good story of werewolves, vampires , violence and romance. A main character Crystal is a tough bad ass and comes across as quite believable. Worth its 4* rating and purchasing for your "to read" shelf
Profile Image for Marcie Wegner.
373 reviews4 followers
May 18, 2015
I was surprised I liked this book as much as I did. The characters were well developed and the plot was fairly well thought out. The ending does leave you hanging so you will want to get the second book in the series right away because I hate not knowing what happens next.
Profile Image for Amber Goodwin.
749 reviews40 followers
July 19, 2017
A great Werewolf and Vampire book. This is not a normal read for me. Took a few chapters to get into the book. I enjoyed Crystal and her fighting to stay alive when so many different things happen to her. I am definitely interested to see how the rest of the story goes.
Profile Image for Clarice.
400 reviews6 followers
October 31, 2017
I had no idea what to expect when I started reading this book. It sounded pretty cool, but with all the fighting and action, it ended up being pretty awesome! You've got guys morphing into werewolves, an underground ring of fighters that are mortals. Their "keepers" are vamps and weres. And then there's Crystal. Apparently she's a short, middle aged woman who might not look like much, but is way more than feisty. She is downright ruthless and in the world she lives, it's what she must be if she wants to survive. Crystal must have the worst luck ever. It seems like every single chance at escape brings her to different creatures of the night. And constantly on the run when she finally finds one that will help her. She's constantly in trouble and wary of everyone, and with good reason. I don't think her life will ever be normal again. How could it? And what about the blue eyed guy and then her son? Lots of loose ends in the book. But I really enjoyed reading it!
46 reviews1 follower
June 27, 2017
The book starts out a little slow and you're left a bit confused in the first few chapters which is understandable since Crystal wakes up with amnesia. The plot is great and not your typical paranormal storyline. You're piecing everything together as Crystal remember her past. She's a bit annoying but she doesn't know what's going on most of the time so it's understandable. Crystal is one strong, badass fighter and definitely a great character. All the characters are great and you will love to hate some of them. Towards the end, a lot is revealed and you're grasping to get all the information. And there is a CLIFFHANGER!! I hate cliffhangers because you're left wanting more. Overall this was a great read and can't want to start the next book!
Profile Image for Alisha Frias.
187 reviews5 followers
March 15, 2018
Reviewing as I read here.....

“It’s taking me forever to get into this book...I don’t know why she’s imprisoned (besides some kind of fighting matches she’s expected to do) still at 11%...with what the title is you’d expect the main female character to be a dragon shifter. But that’s not it at all....

Arriving at chapter 5 the author fast forwarded to 5 years. I wish the author would’ve put that at the top of the chapter like a “5 yrs later” or something..


In charter six she manages to get kidnapped again...this whole book has a big supernatural fight club vibe. The ending was nice...she finally figured out what happened to her mysterious son. Overall I just couldn’t get into it...at all. It just wasn’t my type of read is all...


Profile Image for Denise.
4,119 reviews12 followers
January 28, 2018
This is the first time in seeing and reading this author. I do like to read paranormal so this is a plus too. Right from the beginning I catch that this is a bit different but it also has many elements to it. Since I do also like to read about fighters in contemporary this picked my interest because Crystal is a fighter in a underground ring. One big difference though is what keeps you on her side sticking with her seeing where it all goes. Love does enter into this too with it providing the warmth and heat to this. She does have a quest too with you also needing that answered. It also leaves a opening to keep you in anticipation for more.
Profile Image for Bridgett Brown.
830 reviews47 followers
February 21, 2018
Crystal wakes up not knowing who she is or where she’s at. But soon realizes that’s the least of her problems. She is being forced to fight to the death. And if she chooses not to they will kill her son. A son that she can’t even remember. So she fights and wins for 4 years. Then she’s able to escape only to be caught again. Will she ever get out and find her son? Will she ever remember her son?
A paranormal who done it of sorts. Definitely keep me reading to find out what was gonna happen next. Totally recommend this to paranormal book fans. Fighting, vampires and werewolves what else could you want.
Profile Image for Missy Harton.
491 reviews8 followers
July 31, 2017
"And that's what we want - a mean Crystal."

"I hear they call you the Dragon. The Crystal Dragon."
This is my first time reading Lynn Mullican. Although paranormal/shifter works are not my favorite genera, Crystal Dragon was a well written enjoyable read.
A woman, "to train and fight for the sheer entertainment of the immortal world," has no idea who she is or how she ended up in this situation. Her only option for survival is to fight, but, "these fights are not only about winning. (She'll) fight to the death." Can she escape the danger and gain back her memory?
Profile Image for Shakera.
839 reviews13 followers
August 23, 2017
I thought I would like this story a little more than I did. The synopsis was interesting, but it starts off so slow you start to lose interest. It takes a few chapters to get into the story, but by then you have an image in your head what Crystal looks like... for me, the image was different... but that was minor. What saved this story for me was the supernatural aspect. I love a good story of werewolves and vampires, plus an illegal fight club. If you can stick with the story, it's quite enjoyable. For me, it took too long to get into it, but I'm glad I finished it.
Profile Image for Sherry.
1,004 reviews71 followers
October 2, 2017
A new to me author and not my typical read, but I thoroughly enjoyed this action packed, suspenseful, mysterious story. Crystal's story had me hooked at page one and I couldn't wait to see what happened next. You can't help but like Crystal, a strong, bad ass, who finds herself in a terrible and very unusual situation, but deals with what life has dealt her and comes out on top. An interesting cast of characters who are a mix of vampires and werewolves keeps the story hopping. Ended in a cliffhanger and I can't wait to read the next book.
Profile Image for Tania Fitzgerald.
103 reviews1 follower
March 16, 2017
I like this book, I was given it for an honest review, and here it is.

The storyline is good, we start straight into it, we have a woman, older than what you expect in books now days, but you identify with her, now she has no immediate memory of her life, or past events. She wakes in pain, bruised and cut.
She then learns she is being held for the prime use of illegal fighting, but not for just your run of the mill fighting, but to the death and for an audience of vampires, werewolves, and assorted paranormal creatures .
She guesses at her name and comes up with Crystal, the men holding her inform her she has a son that she cannot remember, and unless she continues fighting they will kill him, so fyor 4 yrs she fights, gets leaner, and more deadly with each kill.

One night a fight goes wrong, after blood is spilt the vampires go crazy and start slaughtering everyone in sight, her handles manage to get her out through a vent and then it is up to her to survive. Her memory begins to come back, but she get taken once more by a group of vampires, for fighting, and finds she has a tattoo on her back of a dragon, and that becomes her fighting name.

A good read, plenty of action, an interesting read, and a good take on the paranormal world from a different perspective. Storyline is good, you like Crystal as she is vulnerable, but learns she has to put all that behind her if she is going to survive the life she is forced to live, and focuses on her goal of finding a way to escape.
I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series
Profile Image for Jo  Lawless.
93 reviews47 followers
September 10, 2017
This was my first read by this author. Yes, I only gave it three stars but I'm going to recommend you read it anyway. Why? Because if you give it a chance and get past the action and to the meat of the story, I think you'll find it actually does have some meat. I think the author shows a growing ability to write more than action and to write characters with whom the audience can connect. I'm going to continue on with the series and think I'm going to be pleased with the author's growth as I do.
Profile Image for Ella Price.
Author 105 books108 followers
October 4, 2017
Exciting, action packed story with a paranormal twist!

I absolutely loved this book. I liked that I had no idea what was going on as much as the main character had no idea what was going on. I learned the story as the character learned and I thought that was so cool. Usually the story is laid out for the reader, but this one kept me guessing. I will definitely be reading the next books in the series. I have to know what happens next!
Profile Image for Stacy.
301 reviews19 followers
October 25, 2017
Crystal Dragon is just one of those books that stays with you. I was captivated from the first page and the story progressed in a way that I did not envision. The storyline is action packed and keeps you in suspense until you turn the next page. And that ending……
This is one epic paranormal book and I cannot wait to read more by this author.

One of my favorite quotes in the book was,” You need a second chance at life. Somebody gave it to me, and I want to give it to you.”
Profile Image for Chrissi.
1,578 reviews11 followers
January 16, 2018
3.5 stars
I mostly liked the book. I didn't love it though. The story idea was a good one,but with quite a few holes i found it lacking. The fact that Crystal disappears, after being abducted and wakens with no memory of her former life for 4ish yrs, and then through a few chance encounters meets her daughter and daughter in law, both don't recognise her....
Profile Image for Katie Ruth.
Author 8 books42 followers
April 1, 2018
A gritty, dark and dirty story with a very real feel- the detailed fights put you right in the scene. I would have liked more story to go with those fights, but the suspense paid off as we discovered more and more about the main character and her life before [spoiler]. Great for vamp and werewolf fans alike!
Profile Image for Rayne Anderson.
15 reviews2 followers
November 4, 2018
Absolutely a Must Read

This novel was perfect in every way. There is so much action and never a dull moment. "Crystal's" stubborn ways, her will to live and need to find a family she doesn't remember really grabbed at me. I found myself on the edge of my seat and rooting through each of her endeavors. The ending killed me. I so didn't want it to end yet.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews

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